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Singer Natalie Cole dead at 65

The nine-time Grammy Award-winning singer has died at the age of 65, according to a report from TMZ
. Her publicist confirmed Cole's death to the Associated Press.

Cole, the daughter of legendary crooner Nat King Cole, broke out in 1975 with her hit single "This Will Be."

Arguably Cole's most famous moment came in 1991, with the release of her album "Unforgettable... With Love." The album included her recording of the song "Unforgettable," which was a posthumous duet with her late father.

On New Year's Day, TMZ reported Cole died of congestive heart failure at a Los Angeles hospital. According to the Associated Press, Cole's publicist said the singer died on Thursday night.

"Natalie fought a fierce, courageous battle, dying how she lived ... with dignity, strength and honor. Our beloved Mother and sister will be greatly missed and remain UNFORGETTABLE in our hearts forever," read a statement from her son Robert Yancy and sisters Timolin and Casey Cole.

Cole had battled drug problems and hepatitis that forced her to undergo a kidney transplant in May 2009. Cole's older sister, Carol "Cookie" Cole, died the day she received the transplant. Their brother, Nat Kelly Cole, died in 1995.

"We’ve lost a wonderful, highly cherished artist and our heartfelt condolences go out to Natalie’s family, friends, her many collaborators, as well as to all who have been entertained by her exceptional talent," read a statement from the Recording Academy, the governing body that presides over the Grammys.